Interior design style secrets

Do you ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes of some of your favourite interior design inspirations? What’s the story behind all those style choices and aesthetics?

I was recently asked to break down the design of a gorgeous executive-style lake home we collaborated on from top to bottom, and here’s a sneak peek into that process…

MEET URBAN THEORY INTERIOR DESIGN

As senior designer and owner of Urban Theory, I was hired by the client to design the exterior/interior architecture, and source all of the materials and finishes for the build. This was a fantastic dream project. 

Together with the client and the builder, we were able to design a modern, yet organic executive haven off the lake.

BIGGEST PROJECT CHALLENGE & WHY

Because the home is so open-concept, one of the main design elements focuses on using the open space to create natural pause and placement by crafting expansive furniture arrangements, a floating wall at the front entry, and enticing the kitchen island out of the kitchen nook slightly and into more of the main dining space.

Playing with these groupings and the layout helped perfectly define each individual area within the open floor plan.

FAVOURITE ASPECT OF THE SPACE

The whole home feels energetic, yet grounded; which creates an amazing sense of comfort and ease. The master ensuite with the semi-opaque 3Form textured acrylic panel in the shower is a clever design feature, and the linear structure of the corner windows above the soaker tub offer an incredible view of the lake and wooded areas surrounding the house.

I also love just how much gorgeous sunshine washes in throughout the day and illuminates the stunning, walnut flooring running throughout.

STYLE WE’RE KNOWN FOR

Urban Theory Design has come to be known for our ability to execute dynamic, contemporary/organic design… not too rigid or austere, and with just enough temperament and playfulness.

Truthfully, we are able to work with almost any design style, because our emphasis is on bringing out the very best of our client’s personalities, and we then infuse our ideas and inspiration to help create the most authentic, soul-hugging spaces.

FAVOURITE DESIGN FIXTURES IN THE HOME

We have always loved the whimsy and distinctiveness behind Hubbardton Forge lighting pieces, so tailoring the selections for prominent yet effortless and airy fixtures was fairly easy to do.

This build required fixtures with character, but clean lines, and the HF design story complimented the build scheme perfectly. www.hubbardtonforge.com

NEXT DREAM PROJECT

We opened an office in beautiful Kelowna in 2014, and the ability to work on projects overlooking some of the most majestic natural scenery has completely opened up and expanded our design focus.

Lately we’ve been dreaming in hints of L.A. and Big Sur… we would love to take on a substantial luxury coastal retreat for a client wanting to create the utmost in well-being and leading-edge, personalized living.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.